The Ludicrous Beliefs of Holocaust Deniers
Recently, a story of a Holocaust denier has hit the news. British writer David Irving was imprisoned in Austria for his beliefs concerning what “actually” happened in Germany from 1939-1945 at countless Nazi concentration camps. These individuals that deny that the Holocaust never occurred blame those who were wrongly imprisoned for what happened to them. Currently Austrian and German law makes it illegal to deny the Holocaust. There is really no better way to put it, but what in the hell is wrong with these people?
The actions of Adolph Hitler and his zombie like Nazi Party during World War II is by far one of, if not the biggest atrocity of the 20th century. Over 6 million Jews were wrongly imprisoned and murdered in concentration camps simply based on the preposterous theory that Jews were an inferior race to the Aryans (i.e. blue eyed, blonde Germans). Hitler subscribed to the Social Darwinist theory of one race being superior to another based on skin color and country of origin. His goal was to make the German race hegemonic on a world scale, i.e. the Third Reich. The ironic fact is that Hitler was quarter Jewish, as many of his descendants were practicing Jews (this interesting tid-bid never got out during his time in power). Hitler was a mental case and this goes to show the sheer madness that pervaded his peculiar though process.
History tells us that Hitler ran countless concentration camps throughout Germany and many of the lands his army invaded from 1939-1945. Many in the west were oblivious to the fact that these camps even existed, much less the appalling acts that were being committed behind the closely guarded gates. It was not until late in the war when the allied powers began entering German territory to discover the masses of ravenous Jews, POWs, and countless other races being kept against their wills. Many of those responsible for these atrocities were subsequently convicted of crimes against humanity at the infamous Nuremburg trials that followed the allied victory.
I would not consider these individuals that deny the Holocaust ever happened as “neo-Nazis.” But instead I would consider them individuals that are not exactly in touch with humanity, anti Semitic so to say. There is not a shadow of a doubt in my mind, much less the minds of millions that the Holocaust happened. It has been the subject of many publications and is something that we learn throughout our years of primary and secondary education in the United States. There is simply no denying the facts of what happened in Nazi Germany during WWII. The myriad of video footage, accounts of those that experienced it firsthand, the stories of the allied troops that liberated the camps, the Nuremburg trials themselves when Nazi officials even admitted their actions, the decrepit presence of where the camps once stood, and even Hitler’s own words in Mien Kampf further detail evidence to the contrary.
This is surely not the act of mass propaganda that has pervaded our western societies over the past sixty years; it is simply stating the truth. Blaming those who were wrongly imprisoned in camps such as Austerlitz, Birkenau, Belzec, etc… is sheer madness. I really haven’t the slightest clue of how these people have come to these conclusions when the facts outweigh their misconstrued view of the past. Their beliefs of the past are insulting to the families of those who experienced one of the lowest points in humanity, much less those who perished in the camps for their beliefs. Some events of the past are best left untouched and this is one of them.
22 December 2006
21 December 2006
The Significance of Population Numbers
Today the Japanese government released alarming statistics concerning their future population growth, well, rather decline. Within the next 50 years their population will decline by almost 30%. The elderly population (those over 65) will rise by 40.5%, which will strain the welfare system of the state. Japan is the only industrialized nation with a declining population. Currently Japan’s population is a little over 127 million people. One would assume that falling population numbers may in fact be a good thing, as the Earth’s total population is expected to rise to almost 12 billion people by 2050, which will put further tension on a variety of social and environmental resources. But the significance of the Japan numbers is concerning because Japan is obviously an ally of the United States and a large contributor to other various western nations.
In reviewing population numbers, it is critical to assess the fertility rate of the women in a particular country to gage the sustainability of a country. In the case of Japan, that number is estimated at 1.4 children born per woman. The other vital number to look at is of course, population growth rate. Japan’s current number is around .02% a year, which is low in comparison to other nations. To point out the disparities in population growth, it is vital to look at a prospering nation, at least in the context of population. India is to become the most populous country in the world within the next few years, overtaking China in the process. It was estimated that India’s population in July 2006 was around 1.1 billion and growing. India’s population is growing at 1.38% a year, which in the milieu of 1.1 billion people, their numbers are steady and on the rise. Their fertility rate is 2.73 children per woman, which is a solid number.
The United States on the other hand is the third most populous nation on the planet, with 300 million people as of October. Our growth rate is around .91% a year and on the rise, with our fertility rate at 2.09 children per woman. A steady flow of new people is vital to any nation, as the economy of any nation is dependent on population growth (a pseudo-Marxism theory of sorts). A good analogy would be this: A nation with one person attempting to run every aspect of the country, or a nation with 2 people trying to run every aspect of a country. Obviously, the country with two people would have the advantage, at least in a capitalist system.
Essentially, the more people a nation possesses, the more likely that nation is likely to succeed. In a communist system such as Chinas', it is the reverse (not as much as it use to). China as of now is still the most populous country on the planet, but the government’s infamous law concerning only one child per couple has staggered their population. In their case, the more people, the more unlikely the government can maintain control. This is not an argument of communism vs. capitalism, but is simply pointing out why population helps to fuel a country in this day and age.
-Source of population numbers: CIA World Factbook 2006
Today the Japanese government released alarming statistics concerning their future population growth, well, rather decline. Within the next 50 years their population will decline by almost 30%. The elderly population (those over 65) will rise by 40.5%, which will strain the welfare system of the state. Japan is the only industrialized nation with a declining population. Currently Japan’s population is a little over 127 million people. One would assume that falling population numbers may in fact be a good thing, as the Earth’s total population is expected to rise to almost 12 billion people by 2050, which will put further tension on a variety of social and environmental resources. But the significance of the Japan numbers is concerning because Japan is obviously an ally of the United States and a large contributor to other various western nations.
In reviewing population numbers, it is critical to assess the fertility rate of the women in a particular country to gage the sustainability of a country. In the case of Japan, that number is estimated at 1.4 children born per woman. The other vital number to look at is of course, population growth rate. Japan’s current number is around .02% a year, which is low in comparison to other nations. To point out the disparities in population growth, it is vital to look at a prospering nation, at least in the context of population. India is to become the most populous country in the world within the next few years, overtaking China in the process. It was estimated that India’s population in July 2006 was around 1.1 billion and growing. India’s population is growing at 1.38% a year, which in the milieu of 1.1 billion people, their numbers are steady and on the rise. Their fertility rate is 2.73 children per woman, which is a solid number.
The United States on the other hand is the third most populous nation on the planet, with 300 million people as of October. Our growth rate is around .91% a year and on the rise, with our fertility rate at 2.09 children per woman. A steady flow of new people is vital to any nation, as the economy of any nation is dependent on population growth (a pseudo-Marxism theory of sorts). A good analogy would be this: A nation with one person attempting to run every aspect of the country, or a nation with 2 people trying to run every aspect of a country. Obviously, the country with two people would have the advantage, at least in a capitalist system.
Essentially, the more people a nation possesses, the more likely that nation is likely to succeed. In a communist system such as Chinas', it is the reverse (not as much as it use to). China as of now is still the most populous country on the planet, but the government’s infamous law concerning only one child per couple has staggered their population. In their case, the more people, the more unlikely the government can maintain control. This is not an argument of communism vs. capitalism, but is simply pointing out why population helps to fuel a country in this day and age.
-Source of population numbers: CIA World Factbook 2006
20 December 2006
The Assault on Christianity
Recently Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen sent out his annual holiday greeting card. No shocker there, as many governors and politicians mail countless greeting cards to their constituents. But of course, with this issue, controversy has arisen. The card features a picture of a young Muslim girl that the governor encountered last year while in Afghanistan. The greeting card has riled many conservatives because the card’s context is of wishing those whom received the card “Merry Christmas.” “Merry Christmas” evidently does not mix too well with the Islamic faith, at least according to the conservatives. The back of the card states the following:
"May the peace and joy of this Christmas season be with you and your loved ones throughout the coming year. While it may seem odd to put a portrait of a young Muslim woman on a Christmas card, this Season reminds us that He loves His children most of all. May the miracle of Christmas help bring peace to this young woman and her wounded land.”
Reverend Maury Davis, a conservative minister has been the governor’s most outspoken critic in reference to the card and its substance. He believes that the card is not clear enough in stating that Jesus loves all people. He also disagrees that Christmas is not about honoring all religions. I am not putting words into the good reverend’s mouth, but my definition included honoring all religions, as the goal of Christianity is to bring people together as one, especially around the holiday season regardless of faith. I believe that Governor Bredesen’s goal was filled with good intentions and not that of malice in insulting other people’s faith, including Christians.
This is a case where politics has stammered into the way of religion. The depiction of a Muslim woman on a holiday greeting card is not wrong; it is further emphasizing the position of Christianity. In the age of vilifying politicians based on their personal beliefs, words from those like Rev. Davis are absolutely uncalled for. Granted, the man is the governor of Tennessee, but I am sure that he disclosed his religious beliefs at sometime during his campaign. People knew what they were receiving when they voted the man into office. Picking apart a simple greeting card wishing everyone a Merry Christmas is utterly ridiculous (not to many people can spell that word for some odd reason) because there is a Muslim woman on the front of it.
The American public has received the wrong idea about Islam in “W’s” war on terror. Only a slim number of those belonging to the faith are apart of the radical sect that perpetrates acts of terror against us “infidels.” The Bush Administration would have you believe that everyone of the Islamic faith is evil and hell bent on dominating the world. I disagree with some aspects of Islam, but I do not despise those who are apart of it. The last time I checked, both Christians and Muslims worship the same God, whether it is “Allah” or Jesus Christ. The basic disagreement between Christianity and Islam is over whether Christ was the true savior. I do not want to debate religious doctrine, as that battle is constantly waged in our own minds. But the point is that conservatives like Rev. Davis are skewing the fine line between politics and religion. His words are an insult to Christians and Muslims alike. Can’t we all just get along and drop the rhetoric? I know that is impossible, but it is the principle that counts, especially from those claiming to tout their beliefs on the "Christian right."
Recently Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen sent out his annual holiday greeting card. No shocker there, as many governors and politicians mail countless greeting cards to their constituents. But of course, with this issue, controversy has arisen. The card features a picture of a young Muslim girl that the governor encountered last year while in Afghanistan. The greeting card has riled many conservatives because the card’s context is of wishing those whom received the card “Merry Christmas.” “Merry Christmas” evidently does not mix too well with the Islamic faith, at least according to the conservatives. The back of the card states the following:
"May the peace and joy of this Christmas season be with you and your loved ones throughout the coming year. While it may seem odd to put a portrait of a young Muslim woman on a Christmas card, this Season reminds us that He loves His children most of all. May the miracle of Christmas help bring peace to this young woman and her wounded land.”
Reverend Maury Davis, a conservative minister has been the governor’s most outspoken critic in reference to the card and its substance. He believes that the card is not clear enough in stating that Jesus loves all people. He also disagrees that Christmas is not about honoring all religions. I am not putting words into the good reverend’s mouth, but my definition included honoring all religions, as the goal of Christianity is to bring people together as one, especially around the holiday season regardless of faith. I believe that Governor Bredesen’s goal was filled with good intentions and not that of malice in insulting other people’s faith, including Christians.
This is a case where politics has stammered into the way of religion. The depiction of a Muslim woman on a holiday greeting card is not wrong; it is further emphasizing the position of Christianity. In the age of vilifying politicians based on their personal beliefs, words from those like Rev. Davis are absolutely uncalled for. Granted, the man is the governor of Tennessee, but I am sure that he disclosed his religious beliefs at sometime during his campaign. People knew what they were receiving when they voted the man into office. Picking apart a simple greeting card wishing everyone a Merry Christmas is utterly ridiculous (not to many people can spell that word for some odd reason) because there is a Muslim woman on the front of it.
The American public has received the wrong idea about Islam in “W’s” war on terror. Only a slim number of those belonging to the faith are apart of the radical sect that perpetrates acts of terror against us “infidels.” The Bush Administration would have you believe that everyone of the Islamic faith is evil and hell bent on dominating the world. I disagree with some aspects of Islam, but I do not despise those who are apart of it. The last time I checked, both Christians and Muslims worship the same God, whether it is “Allah” or Jesus Christ. The basic disagreement between Christianity and Islam is over whether Christ was the true savior. I do not want to debate religious doctrine, as that battle is constantly waged in our own minds. But the point is that conservatives like Rev. Davis are skewing the fine line between politics and religion. His words are an insult to Christians and Muslims alike. Can’t we all just get along and drop the rhetoric? I know that is impossible, but it is the principle that counts, especially from those claiming to tout their beliefs on the "Christian right."
18 December 2006
Defense and "Thuggery"
The Rex Grossman controversy is over, but there is a new controversy brewing in Chicago. The Bears clinched the number one seed in the NFC (and home field advantage throughout the playoffs) on Sunday with a 34-31 overtime win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Isn’t that a problem though? A three point victory over a 3-10 team coming in is a bit concerning. The defense is a shadow of its former self, at least in comparison to the early season defense. The absence of Mike Brown, Tommy Harris, and Tank Johnson (lets say he has a few legal issues right now), has affected the Bears’ ability to quell the run and caused the pass rush to become moot. Granted, the defense only gave up 57 yards on the ground Sunday, but 300 yards through the air, especially three break away plays, all of which occurred in the second half. The secondary is depleted as well, but something needs to be done to stop the leaking. Essentially, the defense blew a 24-3 lead, but luckily the offense brought home the prize. People need to start regaining their health or there maybe a problem come play off time.
On the bright side Grossman had a marvelous game, becoming the first Bears passer in 73 games (that’s quite a few seasons) to pass for over 300 yards. He ended up with 339 yards (a career high) and 2 touchdown passes. He held strong in the face of adversity and guided the offense, which this time, had to win the game. The normally solid Robbie Gould has been off of late as well. After making his first 24 field goals, he has missed three of his last six attempts, one of which could have won the game early in overtime. Luckily the defense held and gave him another chance, which he converted from 25 yards. All I can say is that I hope he regains his confidence, as he will play a major role down the stretch and in the playoffs. Devin Hester also had a shaky game, with one major fumble that turned into a touchdown for the Bucs in the fourth quarter. He did not run any back, but the Bucs kicked away from him most of the game, which goes to show that he is on the minds of Bears’ opponents, hence altering the make-up of the game.
The other topic of this discourse concerns the melee that occurred on Thursday evening between the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks. Conjuring up memories of the debacle that occurred in 2004 between the Pacers and Pistons, this hideous display of belligerence has again tarnished the NBA’s reputation. Ten players were ejected with a 1:15 left in the game, basically all of whom were on the floor at the time. Carmelo Anthony (a cornerstone of the NBA elite) managed to humiliate himself; getting in a cheap shot blow to the face of Mardy Collins after the brawl was quelled. Evidently this brawl occurred due to Isiah Thomas warning Carmelo Anthony not to go to the “paint,” as the game was over by then, with the Nuggets leading big. Thomas evidently was irritated that Anthony and Marcus Camby were still on the floor in a blow out. What kind of behavior for a head coach-president of the Knick’s organization? Real classy!
Essentially this latest brawl has embarrassed the NBA again, relegating the league to “thuggery” status. I am sure that David Stern (NBA commissioner) will take stern (no pun intended) action against those involved in the melee. The sheer number of games that the players involved will accumulate in suspensions should be staggering. The NBA is slowly going down hill, as TV ratings are down and revenues are shrinking. Why is this? Because of these fights that are occurring on a consistent basis! Kids looks up to a lot of these NBA stars. But their actions on the court are not fitting of a role model, but instead they have more in common with a gang on the streets.
The Rex Grossman controversy is over, but there is a new controversy brewing in Chicago. The Bears clinched the number one seed in the NFC (and home field advantage throughout the playoffs) on Sunday with a 34-31 overtime win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Isn’t that a problem though? A three point victory over a 3-10 team coming in is a bit concerning. The defense is a shadow of its former self, at least in comparison to the early season defense. The absence of Mike Brown, Tommy Harris, and Tank Johnson (lets say he has a few legal issues right now), has affected the Bears’ ability to quell the run and caused the pass rush to become moot. Granted, the defense only gave up 57 yards on the ground Sunday, but 300 yards through the air, especially three break away plays, all of which occurred in the second half. The secondary is depleted as well, but something needs to be done to stop the leaking. Essentially, the defense blew a 24-3 lead, but luckily the offense brought home the prize. People need to start regaining their health or there maybe a problem come play off time.
On the bright side Grossman had a marvelous game, becoming the first Bears passer in 73 games (that’s quite a few seasons) to pass for over 300 yards. He ended up with 339 yards (a career high) and 2 touchdown passes. He held strong in the face of adversity and guided the offense, which this time, had to win the game. The normally solid Robbie Gould has been off of late as well. After making his first 24 field goals, he has missed three of his last six attempts, one of which could have won the game early in overtime. Luckily the defense held and gave him another chance, which he converted from 25 yards. All I can say is that I hope he regains his confidence, as he will play a major role down the stretch and in the playoffs. Devin Hester also had a shaky game, with one major fumble that turned into a touchdown for the Bucs in the fourth quarter. He did not run any back, but the Bucs kicked away from him most of the game, which goes to show that he is on the minds of Bears’ opponents, hence altering the make-up of the game.
The other topic of this discourse concerns the melee that occurred on Thursday evening between the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks. Conjuring up memories of the debacle that occurred in 2004 between the Pacers and Pistons, this hideous display of belligerence has again tarnished the NBA’s reputation. Ten players were ejected with a 1:15 left in the game, basically all of whom were on the floor at the time. Carmelo Anthony (a cornerstone of the NBA elite) managed to humiliate himself; getting in a cheap shot blow to the face of Mardy Collins after the brawl was quelled. Evidently this brawl occurred due to Isiah Thomas warning Carmelo Anthony not to go to the “paint,” as the game was over by then, with the Nuggets leading big. Thomas evidently was irritated that Anthony and Marcus Camby were still on the floor in a blow out. What kind of behavior for a head coach-president of the Knick’s organization? Real classy!
Essentially this latest brawl has embarrassed the NBA again, relegating the league to “thuggery” status. I am sure that David Stern (NBA commissioner) will take stern (no pun intended) action against those involved in the melee. The sheer number of games that the players involved will accumulate in suspensions should be staggering. The NBA is slowly going down hill, as TV ratings are down and revenues are shrinking. Why is this? Because of these fights that are occurring on a consistent basis! Kids looks up to a lot of these NBA stars. But their actions on the court are not fitting of a role model, but instead they have more in common with a gang on the streets.
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